Frugal Icelandic Adventure: Dance with Auroras along the Blue Lagoon

When you think of Iceland, the first thing that comes to mind is the electronica songstress, Björk, right? Fortunately, Reykjavik [ˈreiːcaˌviːk], Iceland had so much more to offer. After a $280 roundtrip ticket with WOW Airlines, it was time to see what Iceland had to offer. Visiting Iceland can be a bit on the pricey side but you can maintain a lifetime experience on a great budget. Many people ask me how I travel, believing the myth that enjoying these places come with a hefty price tag. To debunk this myth, here are some attractions and tips to make your stay in Iceland that much cooler and freer.

Flight

With direct flights from Baltimore or Boston to Keflavik, I could not pass up this great deal with WOW Airlines. The six hour flight wasn’t too bad, but be prepared to pay for your meal, even drinks. The flight attendants take US dollars & Euros. While you’re on the plane, you can purchase a bus ticket from the airport in Keflavik to your hotel or hostel in Reykjavik.

Lodging

If you want to save money, stay in a hostel or there is always the option of airbnb. Many hostels offer free breakfast or a $7-8 charge. This will eliminate ordering or eating out so much. After reading other blogs, I would also suggest bringing a water bottle and filling up with some fresh Icelandic water for free. This saves you a lot of money and you’re hydrated.

Car Rental

Travel with friends and rent a car. There are many to choose from. SADCar had the best deal with unlimited mileage and insurance included.

Blue Lagoon

This is a tourist attraction but it is worth visiting. It is cheaper to visit Iceland in its winter season. Prices for the Blue Lagoon differ based on its winter and summer seasons. You can enjoy the geothermal bath for 35€. The Lagoon is about 40 minutes outside of Reykjavik. The country is very travel friendly with visible signs leading you to your destination.

The Golden Circle

Gas up the car, plan a full day to explore The Golden Circle, it is filled with some of the most beautiful water falls, geysers, and mountain ridges. If you travel in the winter months, bundle up, dress warm, it felt like a December in Chicago or Milwaukee. It is very traveler friendly with signs helping you along the way. If you are feeling more adventurous, extend the journey by driving an extra hour to Seljalandsfoss or Skøgafoss to see some amazing waterfalls that many people opt out of. On the circle, you must try a cheap hotdog at one of the gas stations on the route.

The Northern Lights

This is one of the most beautiful experiences you can see in Reykjavik. Depending on the clarity of the night, you can see the auroras dance through the sky. The best places to see the Northern Lights are in Alftanes, Iceland, which is a 15 minute drive out of Reykjavik to Seltjarnarnes, this dark, narrow peninsula near downtown.

I would encourage everyone to book their next trip to Iceland. If you’re a frugal traveler like myself, you will enjoy the city of Reykjavik and see a great amount of the island in 3-4 days. Happy Traveling.